Relief Printing on Washi
Relief printing, which today includes woodcut, linocut, hand set type (letterpress), rubber stamps etc., is the oldest printing method and is extremely well-suited to using washi, especially when hand printing as the image can easily be seen through the back without lifting.
Tips and Things to Consider
· if you dampen your paper do so by misting or placing between layers of dampened newsprint in a damp pack (should be done several hours ahead)
· a carrier sheet can be useful when working with dampened washi, esp. larger sheets
· many papers print well without dampening, especially gampi
· ink can go right through thinner papers when printing – consider printing with a layer of newsprint behind to protect baren or press
· thinner papers dry out quickly – print with first layer of newsprint dampened as well as impression paper and an additional dry newsprint layer will allow baren to glide more easily
· when choosing inks be aware of the method of drying for that brand: inks that rely on absorption are best avoided when printing on thinner papers. The use of drying additives may be advised
Paper Suggestions
Most types of washi will work – though kozo is strongest when printing with a press – slightly heavier papers are often preferred including those with some wood pulp content
Excellent mid-grade papers
Kozuke White
Kozuke Ivory (sized)
Risoh (unsized) for proofing
Kiraku Kozo
Iwami Natural
Iwami White
Uwa Senka
Best quality papers
Gozen
Seichosen
Inshu Kozo
Ryudou
Don't discount using thin papers – great results can be achieved with some extra care.
Artist Precedents
Brian Kelley (contemporary)
Shiko Munakata
Japanese woodblock artist who coloured his prints from the back
Walter J Phillips (1884 - 1963) Canadian woodblock artist
Image provided by The Japanese Paper Place · Artist Brian Kelly · Title Game · Woodcut
All information courtesy of The Japanese Paper Place
www.japanesepaperplace.com
Reproduction by permission only